Chinese ushered in the New Year according to the traditional lunar calendar on Friday, as the Year of the Rabbit gives way to the Year of the Dragon.
The dragon is a popular symbol in China. According to superstition, it symbolizes strength and luck, which is why dragon years are popular in China for having children.
Most Chinese celebrate with their families, which leads to a huge wave of travellers across the country. This year's travels were upset by a severe onset of winter in central China.
The New Year festivities are typically celebrated over lavish dinners while watching the annual New Year's Gala on state television.
Public holidays are an important source of income in the tourism sector, which the crisis-ridden Chinese economy in particular can profit from.
People in China typically use red-themed decorations on their front doors at this time of year, hoping that this will bring prosperity and luck to their homes. Red envelopes containing money are popular gifts. The colour red symbolizes luck.
During the day, the state broadcaster CCTV 13 reported on celebrations throughout the country, and soldiers sent New Year's greetings from the sea or from remote regions on land.
The current crew of the Chinese space station also sent greetings from space.